Longitudinal study on the efficacy of mixed-method teledermatology in acne management

Summary: Abstract Body: Our study aims to evaluate the long-term efficacy of the mixed-method teledermatology approach, combining synchronous (real-time video consultations) and asynchronous (store-and-forward technology) methods, provided through DermCafe, focusing on patient outcomes and satisfaction. We performed a retrospective chart review of patients who received acne treatment through mixed-method teledermatology at DermCafe over the past four years. Our study involved patients who engaged in both synchronous and asynchronous teledermatology sessions. Data was gathered on patient demographics, skin type, genetic background, lifestyle factors, and co-existing conditions. Treatment effectiveness was evaluated through clinical assessments using the Global Acne Grading System. Patient-reported outcomes, including quality of life and treatment satisfaction, were tracked over an extended follow-up period. Preliminary analysis indicated that the mixed-method teledermatology approach results in high diagnostic accuracy and patient satisfaction. Objective measures show a significant improvement in acne severity, as the Global Acne Grading System scores decreased substantially across the patient population. Patient-reported outcomes reflect high satisfaction levels with both convenience and effectiveness of treatment. Acne symptom recurrence was notably delayed, demonstrating the long-term benefits of this approach. This study provides comprehensive insights into long-term outcomes of mixed-method teledermatology for acne management. The findings support the use of this approach for improving patient outcomes and satisfaction, suggesting that mixed-method teledermatology is a viable and effective strategy for acne management. Future research should continue to explore the optimization of these methods to further enhance their efficacy. Negin Pak¹, Rachel Xue², Margaret Mercante³, Joy Xu⁴ 1. Unity Health Toronto, Toronto, ON, Canada. 2. Western University Schulich School of Medicine & Dentistry, London, ON, Canada. 3. University of Virginia School of Medicine, Charlottesville, VA, United States. 4. University of California Los Angeles David Geffen School of Medicine, Los Angeles, CA, United States. Clinical Research: Epidemiology and Observational Research